Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Pickaway County / May 1, 2025

💰 Budget tightrope

Pickaway County • May 1, 2025

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Good morning, Pickaway County. The clock is ticking on Circleville's financial stability, with a projected $2.5 million safety funding shortfall looming by 2026. While services remain intact through 2025, tensions are already flaring during budget discussions, with some council members pushing for immediate 25% departmental cuts rather than waiting for the crisis to deepen. These difficult conversations highlight the growing friction between city leadership and council as they navigate tough decisions that will ultimately impact resident services.

Meanwhile, bright spots continue to emerge throughout our community. The Pickaway County Democratic Central Committee has awarded their fourth annual "Engage for the Future" scholarships to civic-minded high school seniors, emphasizing the non-partisan nature of recognizing young community leaders. And the Chamber of Commerce welcomes Jan Shannon as interim director, bringing her impressive 37-year career experience and deep community connections to the role alongside Project Coordinator Savannah MacDowell.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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💰 Circleville faces $2.5 million safety funding crisis by 2026. City officials are grappling with tough budget decisions as they anticipate a significant shortfall after a proposed financial measure failed. While funding for safety forces will continue normally through 2025, tensions emerged during a Finance Committee meeting where council members urged immediate cuts rather than waiting. One proposal would require each department to slash 25% from its budget to address the projected deficit. The difficult financial situation has highlighted growing friction between council members and city leadership as residents may soon feel the impact.

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🎓 Local Democrats award scholarships to civic-minded high school seniors. The Pickaway County Democratic Central Committee has announced recipients for their fourth annual "Engage for the Future" scholarship program. Despite being organized by Democrats, the committee emphasizes that the initiative is non-partisan in nature. The scholarships recognize outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated commitment to civic engagement and improving their communities.

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👩‍💼 Pickaway Chamber names local retiree Jan Shannon as interim director. Shannon, a Pickaway County native with an MBA from Ohio Christian University, will lead the Chamber part-time on a ten-month contract alongside Project Coordinator Savannah MacDowell. Her extensive career includes 21 years with Ohio Public Retirement Systems and 9 years with Pickaway County Job and Family Services, followed by 7 years as the first full-time Executive Director of the Pickaway County Community Foundation. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shannon maintains an active community presence through various board positions and her role as president of Circleville Sunrise Rotary.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Cheap fixer-upper needs work: This $59,990 Cape Cod in New Holland is a blank-slate investment opportunity with 2 bedrooms and 866 sq ft, needing complete renovation to unlock its rental or resale potential.
Real estate listing image Inviting haven with modern amenities: Priced at $324,900, this inviting Pickaway County home offers comfort with a first-floor owner's suite, whole-house generator, and versatile loft space in the desirable TVSD school district.
Real estate listing image Versatile Cape Cod quiet living: Priced at $214,900, this charming Cape Cod home boasts three bedrooms, updated kitchen with appliances, lifetime roof warranty, and multiple outbuildings on three parcels—perfect for those seeking quiet neighborhood living with versatile space.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌊 May 1 - Indivisible Pickaway Kick-Off: Democracy enthusiasts unite! Join the Indivisible Pickaway County Kick-Off Meeting at Pickaway County Library on May 1, connecting with neighbors who care about protecting democracy and amplifying community voices.
🥾 May 1 - Thursday Trail Tours: Explore the natural beauty of Pickaway County on Thursday Trail Tours! Join the Park District every 1st & 3rd Thursday this spring for interactive guided walks through scenic local pathways. May 1 at 16405 US-23.
🚗 May 2 - Summer Nights Cruise In: Rev up your engines for the 2025 Summer Nights Cruise In! Classic cars and summer vibes take over 1720 N Court St in Circleville on May 2 for an unforgettable evening of automotive nostalgia.
🍻 May 3 - Mrs. Roper Pub Crawl: Channel your inner Mrs. Roper at this groovy pub crawl through Uptown Circleville on May 3! Hop from bar to bar with fellow revelers at this fun-filled tribute starting at 122 S Washington St.
🌿 May 3 - Master Your Shady Spaces: Uncover the secrets to transforming dark corners into gorgeous garden spaces! Join us at Rhoads Garden Center on May 3rd at 9:30 AM for "SHADY Secrets" and turn those problem areas into thriving retreats.
🌽 May 3 - First Farmers Market Day: Kick off spring at the Commercial Point Farmers Market on May 3! Browse local wax melts, candles, and car diffusers from 10am-1pm at 10 W Scioto St. First market of the year!
🌱 May 4 - Plant Propagation Sun-Catcher: Green thumbs unite! Create your own plant propagation sun-catcher at Rhoads Garden Center in Circleville on May 4. A perfect spring activity to brighten your home and expand your garden collection.
🚲 May 4 - Community Trail Ride: Pedal through scenic views at the Circleville Community Bike Ride! Join Pickaway MTB every Wednesday for a refreshing 1.5-mile journey from the YMCA to Ohio Christian University along the beautiful RoundTown Trail. May 4.

🙏 In Remembrance

Timothy Craig

Timothy Dane Craig, born in Circleville, Ohio on September 12, 1962, passed away at home on April 27, 2025. He is survived by his wife Dusti, whom he married in 1995, six daughters, 24 grandchildren, and numerous loved ones, while being preceded in death by his mother, daughter, brother, and nephew. Tim will be remembered for his positive spirit, sense of humor, and passion for family gatherings, as well as his enjoyment of various hobbies including gardening, fishing, motorcycles, and model building. A member of Leather Bound Biker Church, Tim's visitation and funeral service will be held on May 1, 2025, at Wellman Funeral Home in Circleville, followed by burial at Forrest Cemetery.

Timothy Craig

Nettie Jackson

Nettie Jackson, 75, of Circleville, passed away on April 27, 2025, after being born on November 6, 1949, in Lawrence County, Kentucky to Albert and Wanda Jackson. She was predeceased by her parents and siblings Shannon and Carolyn Jackson. Nettie is survived by her son William, brother Sam, sister-in-law Connie, numerous nieces and nephews, and her grandchildren Liam and Landon. The family expressed gratitude to Heartland Hospice and Logan Elm Healthcare, and cremation services have been observed.

Paul E. Merideth

Paul E. Merideth, an 80-year-old resident of Ashville, OH, passed away on April 28, 2025, at OhioHealth Berger Hospital. Born in Columbus on April 8, 1945, he was a U.S. Navy veteran who worked for Nichols Bread Co. and owned GoldStar Vending. Paul, who enjoyed drag racing and working on cars, is survived by his son, four grandchildren, a great-grandson, and extended family. A visitation and funeral service will be held on May 3rd at Oliver-Cheek Funeral Home in Ashville.

Paul E. Merideth

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

-Philippians 4:13

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